Dispersed camping near Randolph, Utah offers primitive sites across multiple national forest and BLM areas with elevations ranging from 6,500 to 8,200 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature shifts, with summer daytime highs in the 80s dropping to the 40s at night. Most sites lack amenities but provide access to wildlife viewing, fishing streams, and extensive trail networks throughout the Cache National Forest and surrounding public lands.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several camping locations offer direct access to fishing waters. At Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping, sites are positioned near the Logan River. One visitor noted, "There is a creek that flows back and forth around the area, we had that for our soundtrack as we slept."
Hiking access: Rustic camping areas near Randolph connect to hiking trails through mountain terrain. Green Canyon Dispersed Campground features "a well-loved trail starts a short distance up the road" according to one camper who visited in winter. Another mentioned, "Local residents love this Trail for trail runs, or mountain biking."
Wildlife viewing: Many primitive camping sites offer chances to observe local wildlife. At Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area, campers report seeing diverse bird species. One visitor described seeing "lots of birds and ducks to watch" and even "a moose way off in the distance."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Remote camping near Randolph appeals to those seeking peace away from crowds. At Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin, a camper described the experience as "very quiet, barely any people. There's man made firepits made out of rocks of people who have stayed here."
Scenic vistas: The mountain terrain provides elevated viewpoints. One camper at Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo shared: "We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out, it was the end of September and all the leaves were changing."
Stargazing conditions: The remote nature of these rustic camping sites creates excellent dark sky viewing. A visitor to Fossil Butte National Monument BLM land emphasized the "dark dark sky and unbelievably quiet" conditions that make it ideal for night sky observation.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to some sites requires appropriate vehicles. At Fossil Butte National Monument BLM, visitors warn of "a 17% grade loose gravel narrow road with two hairpins" and note "high clearance vehicle needed, especially on the BLM land."
Seasonal timing matters: Weather conditions affect campsite availability and comfort. One Monte Cristo camper mentioned, "if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick."
Bug pressure: Some areas experience significant insect activity. At Woodruff Narrows Bear Riverside, a camper warned of "insanely buggy this time of year. Couldn't open my vehicle doors for a second or they flooded in."
Wind exposure: Open sites can experience significant wind. A visitor to Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area cited "the wind and the OHVs" as their "only complaints" about an otherwise favorite dispersed camping spot.
Tips for camping with families
Space considerations: Some sites accommodate larger groups better than others. A Franklin Basin Road visitor noted, "This is the big rig area. There are also a few dispersed spots down in this lower area... This area is just a basic parking lot with a bathroom."
Timing for site selection: Arrive early to secure appropriate sites, especially for family groups. Franklin Basin campers advised, "Tons of spaces here. Big pull-in spots for camper rigs. And some small side pull outs for sedans who don't mind walk-in tent spots."
Activity options: When camping with children, look for sites with natural features. Green Canyon Dispersed Campground offers "tons of little spots along a gravel road" with "tons of trails and mountain bikers" as well as "cool rock visuals above a majority of the sites."
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Many dispersed sites have size restrictions. One Smithfield Dispersed Campsite visitor warned there was "no warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides."
RV-friendly sites: Some areas accommodate larger vehicles better than others. A Woodruff Narrows camper shared: "Very private boondocking area about 10 miles off the highway. Wide open area; fairly level in the campsites we saw. The road is okay if you go slowly; we came in with our 31' class A pulling a 12' box trailer."
Turning space: Watch for adequate room to maneuver larger vehicles. A Monte Cristo visitor noted their spot was "not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small."
